As another Reconciliation Week draws to a close, AbSec is pausing to reflect on the meaning of the occasion and the experiences gained.
AbSec CEO John Leha says it is an important week on the calendar, particularly for Aboriginal peoples but also for the wider Australian community.
“Reconciliation is about acknowledging the wrongs of the past, while also coming together to build the bridges that forge new paths of unity and understanding,” he says.
“The week is about celebrating the rich tapestry of Aboriginal culture—its uniqueness, resilience, and beauty—and finding joy in the shared human experiences that connect us all.”
A key moment of this year’s Reconciliation Week was a rally that took place in front of NSW Parliament last Monday, supported by AbSec and various allies.
Its primary goal was to bring attention to the Stolen Generations and seek reforms to stop such injustices happening again.
“The pain and anguish that was inflicted upon the Stolen Generations is immeasurable, leaving a dark stain on our national history,” Mr Leha says.
“Worst of all is the fact that it is still happening, with Aboriginal children still being removed from their homes in disproportionate numbers.”
“Yet another generation is being stolen, right in front of our eyes.”
The rally had three main demands:
- Stop forced removal of Aboriginal children.
- Repeal the youth bail laws in NSW.
- Aboriginal community-controlled solutions now.
Reconciliation Week was marked by a range of events across the nation, both large and small.
Most had a core goal of highlighting Aboriginal culture and strengthening Aboriginal communities, in a spirit of cheerful fraternity with non-Indigenous people.
In Penrith, AbSec facilitated a crucial dialogue where leaders in child protection discussed the vital transition of Aboriginal children and young people in out-of-home care back to community-controlled care, strengthening the fabric of Aboriginal sovereignty and family ties.
With Reconciliation Week behind us, our spirits are lifted as we look forward to NAIDOC Week in July, a nationwide celebration of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander history, culture and achievements.
AbSec is excited to host our annual NAIDOC Family Fun Day in Marrickville, an event that joyously brings together over 3,000 people, celebrating our rich cultural heritage and shared future.
